Why did Jacob fear Laban according to Genesis 31:31, and how is fear addressed in Scripture? Setting the Scene After twenty years of service, Jacob has prospered, but tensions with his father-in-law have escalated (Genesis 31:1-2). God tells Jacob, “Return to the land of your fathers” (v. 3), and Jacob departs secretly with his family and flocks. Pinpointing Jacob’s Fear (Genesis 31:31) “Jacob answered Laban, ‘Because I was afraid, for I thought you would take your daughters from me by force.’” What Jacob admits: • He feared Laban’s physical power—Laban could seize Rachel and Leah “by force.” • He feared losing the family God promised would carry the covenant line (cf. Genesis 28:13-15). • He feared retaliation for leaving without notice after years of mounting grievances (31:7, 41). Layers Behind the Fear • A record of exploitation—Laban had switched wages ten times (31:7) and swapped brides (29:25). • Isolation—Jacob was on foreign soil with servants and small children, far from allies. • The unknown—Laban pursued with armed men (31:23), reinforcing Jacob’s concerns. Yet God had already promised Jacob protection (31:3; cf. 28:15). How God Addresses Fear Throughout Scripture • Fear of man is a trap (Proverbs 29:25). • God’s presence dispels fear: – “Do not fear, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10). – “Even though I walk through the valley… I will fear no evil, for You are with me” (Psalm 23:4). • God’s word invites trust when afraid: – “When I am afraid, I will trust in You” (Psalm 56:3-4). • Courage comes from His commands and promises: – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous… the LORD your God is with you” (Joshua 1:9). • The Spirit equips believers: – “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). • Perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). • Seeking the Lord brings deliverance: – “I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears” (Psalm 34:4). Key Truths to Overcome Fear Today • Remember God’s past faithfulness—as Jacob could recall at Bethel (Genesis 28:16-22). • Rest in His promises—He is both present and powerful. • Replace fear of man with fear of God—a reverent trust that safeguards (Proverbs 29:25). • Rely on the Spirit—power, love, and self-control displace anxiety. • Rehearse His word—filling the heart with truth pushes out dread. Wrap-Up Jacob’s fear sprang from a very real threat, yet God’s ongoing protection proved sufficient (Genesis 31:24, 29). Scripture consistently answers fear with God’s presence, promises, and perfect love—resources still available for every believer facing intimidating circumstances today. |
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